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Fraud Solicitors

Our Fraud Solicitors provide clear and strategic legal defence for individuals, company directors and businesses facing serious fraud allegations and investigations.

Fraud investigations can expose you to criminal prosecution, financial loss and significant damage to your professional reputation. For these reasons, it is crucial to have the best reprentation in your corner. Draycott Browne's lawyers are leaders in this area of law. 

Our solicitors can intervene immediately. We can manage communications with investigators, advise you before interview and examine the allegations and evidence being relied upon. Where there are grounds to do so, we can challenge investigative measures and make representations before any charging decision is made.

We scrutinise the prosecution case from an early stage and identify evidential or procedural weaknesses that may affect its strength.

Our Fraud department is led by Rob Mann, Director and Head of Fraud. His extensive experience in high value and high profile fraud investigations gives him a detailed understanding of how prosecuting authorities develop financial crime cases. 

Draycott Browne has more than 25 years of experience defending financial crime allegations. Our Fraud Solicitors combine technical legal knowledge with detailed evidence analysis and skilled defence strategy. Every case is approached on its own facts so that our defence reflects the allegations, the evidence and your legal position.

Our Fraud Defence team is available 24 hours a day for urgent legal advice.

How our Fraud Solicitors can Help

Fraud investigations require considered representation from an early stage. Our solicitors provide clear advice on your legal position and take immediate steps to protect your interests.

We can assist by:

  • Providing urgent advice following an arrest or search
  • Preparing you for an interview under caution
  • Representing you during an interview under caution
  • Managing communications with investigating authorities
  • Reviewing the evidence relied upon against you
  • Challenging investigative measures where legally justified
  • Making representations before a charging decision
  • Preparing and presenting your defence in court

Where specialist financial or technical evidence is required, we work with forensic accountants and other appropriate experts. 

Early engagement of Draycott Browne guarantees an expert and determined approach to quickly understand the prosecution case, preserve relevant defence evidence and address weaknesses in the allegations.

Our strategy is to take control of the situation, shift momentum to your favour and bring about the best outcome at the earliest time.  Talk to our expert Fraud Solicitors today.

Speak to an expert

Our legal team is available 7 days a week

How I Take Control of the Investigation

Robert Mann | Fraud Defence Lawyer

"I don't believe in waiting for the prosecution to make the first move. Success in fraud defence is built in the months before you ever step into a courtroom. We use that time to dismantle the case against you piece by piece, auditing every document and challenging every assumption. When we take control, we aren't just reacting to the investigation; we are leading it."

Arrested or facing an urgent interview? Call me now on the 24/7 emergency number at the top of this page for immediate advice.

 

Speak to Rob Mann

Immediate Defence Strategy for Fraud Investigations

We need to understand not only what evidence the authorities have obtained, but the conclusions they are drawing from it and whether those conclusions stand up when the evidence is examined in its proper context.

Rob Mann, Director and Head of Fraud:

"When I first look at a fraud case, I want to understand the prosecution's theory. What do they say happened? Where do they say the money went? Who do they say knew what, and when? Then we start testing that theory against the evidence.

Fraud cases can look overwhelming because of the sheer amount of material involved. Our job is to break that material down, follow the evidence and identify where the prosecution's case does not tell the whole story."

 

1. Establish the scope of the investigation

We identify who is investigating you, what evidence has already been obtained, which offences are being considered and what action investigators may take next.

 

2. Analyse the financial trail

We examine payments, accounts, invoices and financial records in context to establish why transactions took place, who authorised them and what evidence supports your account.

 

3. Reconstruct what actually happened

We build a clear chronology using documents, communications and financial records to establish what happened, what you knew and what you understood at the relevant time.

 

4. Establish your individual role

We separate your actions and knowledge from those of other individuals or businesses and identify who made decisions, authorised transactions and had access to relevant information.

 

5. Test the evidence against you

We challenge assumptions, inconsistencies and evidence taken out of context and identify material that supports an alternative explanation or undermines the case against you.

"Volume of evidence and strength of evidence are not the same thing. A fraud case might contain thousands of pages of documents, but the important question is what those documents actually prove."

 

6. Prepare for any prosecution

We scrutinise the prosecution case, pursue relevant disclosure, obtain expert evidence where required and build a robust defence well before any court proceedings begin.

Can a Fraud Investigation be Stopped Before I'm Charged?

Yes, in some cases. Being investigated for fraud does not mean that you will be charged. An investigation may end with no further action if the evidence does not justify a prosecution.

This makes the period before a charging decision important. We can examine the evidence, identify weaknesses in the case and provide material that supports your position.

We can make focused representations before a charging decision where appropriate to challenge the prosecution case, correct misunderstandings and highlight evidence that supports your account.

No lawyer can guarantee that an investigation will end without charge. However, early representation gives us the opportunity to put your case forward before key decisions about prosecution are made.


If you are under investigation, then speak to our Fraud Solicitors as early as possible.

Infographic highlighting Draycott Browne's criminal defence expertise.

Successfull Fraud Defence Cases & Testimonials

Draycott Browne represented the client in a multi million pound fraud investigation involving more than 100,000 pages of evidence and what became the longest running trial in the history of Liverpool Crown Court. Led by Director Rob Mann, the defence successfully argued that there was no case to answer after the Prosecution sought a retrial. The Judge found there was insufficient evidence for the case to proceed and a formal verdict of not guilty was entered.

Draycott Browne Director Rob Mann represented the client in a prosecution brought by the Insolvency Service for Fraud by False Representation relating to Bounce Back loans obtained during the Covid pandemic. The client denied fraud and Rob Mann prepared the case for trial with substantial evidence supporting the position that he had not acted dishonestly. Shortly before trial, the Prosecution offered no evidence on the fraud allegation and accepted a plea to a regulatory offence under the Insolvency Act for which the client received a Suspended Sentence Order.

Draycott Browne Director Rob Mann represented a company director charged with Conspiracy to Defraud in connection with an alleged £5 million investment fraud involving a Ponzi scheme. Through detailed analysis of the evidence and careful preparation, the defence demonstrated that the client had himself been misled into believing the business was legitimate. Following a lengthy trial at Southwark Crown Court, the jury acquitted the client and returned a verdict of not guilty.

Read More Case Studies

For the last three years I have been living a nightmare.

It was with both joy and a great sense of relief that I was finally exonerated of any wrong-doing at Liverpool Crown Court on the 18th October 2018.

I wish to express my sincere gratitude to my legal team, Michael Neofytou and Robert Shaw of 25 Bedford Row Chambers, London together with Rob Mann of Draycott Browne solicitors, Manchester.

All three of them believed in me throughout and guided me through the most turbulent time of adversity that I have ever faced.

I would also like to thank all those friends and former constituents who stood by me during this extremely stressful time. To all of them, I am extremely grateful.

I now seek to concentrate on re-building my life.

David Richard Barton Liverpool

Read More Client Testimonials

What Are the Penalties for Fraud?

Fraud can carry serious criminal, financial and professional consequences. Under the Fraud Act 2006, fraud by false representation, failing to disclose information and abuse of position can each carry a maximum sentence of 10 years' imprisonment.

Depending on the offence and circumstances, the consequences may include:

  • A substantial prison sentence
  • A financial penalty
  • Confiscation of assets
  • An order to compensate victims
  • Disqualification from acting as a company director
  • Professional or regulatory action
  • Lasting damage to your career or business

The sentence will depend on factors including the financial harm caused or intended, your role in the offence and your level of culpability. In cases involving several defendants, the court must consider each person's involvement and responsibility individually.

These consequences are not inevitable. Being investigated does not mean you will be charged and being charged does not mean you will be convicted.

We focus first on challenging the allegations and building the strongest available defence. If you are convicted, we will present your case robustly to achieve the best possible sentencing outcome.

Our Expert Fraud Defence Solicitors

Specialist expertise in defending all types of fraud offences.

Art and Antique Fraud
Bank Fraud
Benefit Fraud
Conspiracy to Defraud
Counterfeiting and Forgery
Credit Card Fraud
Cryptocurrency Fraud
Fraudulent Trading
Identity Fraud
Insider Trading
Insurance Fraud
Investment Fraud
Mortgage Fraud
Pension Fraud
Tax Fraud & Evasion
VAT Fraud

Our Specialist Fraud Lawyers

Shaun Draycott

Shaun Draycott

Managing Director & Serious Crime Solicitor
Rob Mann

Rob Mann

Director & Serious Crime Solicitor
Venessa Schweitzer

Venessa Schweitzer

Consultant Litigator
Caitlin Cardwell

Caitlin Cardwell

Crown Court Litigator
Meet the Team

Contact our Fraud Defence Lawyers

Our Fraud Solicitors are nationally regarded across the legal profession and recognised as experts across all matters of fraud, whether alleged against an individual, a business or company officers.

We have practised within this area of law for over 25 years. Our experience in even the most complex and sophisticated Fraud cases means you’ll have the best possible chance of a successful outcome to the challenge you are facing.

As one of the UK's leading firm's of criminal defence solicitors we are relentless in the pursuit of achieving the best result possible for all clients. As such we are regulary instructed by clients from across England & Wales.

Our track record and expertise make us the leading choice for Fraud Defence Solicitors in Liverpool, Leeds, Birmingham, as well as Manchester. 

When facing serious consequences, trust in Draycott Browne.

You cannot afford to settle for anything less. Call our Fraud Defence team today.

Fraud is an intentional deception carried out for personal gain or to cause harm to others. This can include identity theft, credit card fraud, internet scams, and many other forms of fraudulent activity.

In addition to being a criminal offence, fraud can also result in civil lawsuits and regulatory actions.

Fraud is defined by the Serious Fraud Office (SFO) as an act of deception intended for personal gain or to cause loss to somebody else.

Fraud is now the most common crime committed in the UK, with a 2017 Experian study suggesting the country loses over £190 billion per year due to fraud. In the same year, cases of fraud hit a 15-year high.

As a result of this, fraud has become a high-profile crime, with a lot of focus being placed on prosecuting convicted individuals and the potential punishments being severe. 

The length of a Fraud Investigation in the UK can vary significantly depending on the nature and scale of the alleged offence. While some straightforward cases may be concluded within a few months, more serious or high-value investigations led by agencies like the Serious Fraud Office (SFO) or HMRC can last a year or more. In cases involving cross-border financial activity, large volumes of digital evidence or multiple defendants, timelines can extend even further.

Engaging experienced Fraud Investigation Solicitors as early as possible is the best way to protect your position and ensure the process moves forward as efficiently as possible. At Draycott Browne, our Fraud Solicitors act quickly to limit unnecessary delays, respond to disclosure requests, and defend your rights at every stage of the investigation.

Fraud Investigations can remain confidential in the early stages, particularly if law enforcement agencies are gathering evidence covertly. However, as the case progresses, certain elements may enter the public domain, especially if the matter is prosecuted or involves a high-profile individual or business.

The Serious Fraud Office (SFO) often publishes updates on its investigations and charges. Similarly, arrests, court hearings and charges brought by other agencies such as HMRC or the CPS may be reported in the media.

A police interview in a fraud case is usually conducted under caution, meaning that anything you say can be used as evidence. You may be interviewed following arrest or voluntarily, but in both situations the interview is formal and can significantly influence how the case progresses.

During the interview, officers will ask questions about your financial dealings, communications, or actions linked to the alleged offence. The interview may be audio or video recorded and can last several hours, particularly in high-value or document-heavy cases.

You are entitled to legal representation, and having an experienced solicitor present is essential. At Draycott Browne, our Fraud Solicitors will explain the allegations to you clearly, protect you from inappropriate questioning, and ensure that your legal position is safeguarded throughout.

Yes. In many fraud investigations, electronic devices such as laptops, mobile phones, hard drives and servers may be seized by the authorities. This typically happens under the authority of a search warrant or during a raid, often without advance warning.

The police or Serious Fraud Office may examine these devices for emails, bank records, financial data or communications that could be used as evidence. In some cases, data stored in cloud accounts or encrypted formats may also be targeted.

If your devices have been seized, it is vital to seek immediate advice from experienced Fraud Investigation Solicitors. We will ensure that your legal rights have been observed, assess the scope of the search, and challenge the admissibility of any unlawfully obtained evidence.

Yes. If you are being investigated for fraud, your assets may be frozen through a Restraint Order under the Proceeds of Crime Act 2002 (POCA). This is a powerful tool used by investigators to prevent individuals from disposing of, transferring, or hiding assets that may be connected to criminal activity.

A restraint order can apply to a wide range of assets, including bank accounts, property, investments and even jointly owned or business-held assets. In many cases, individuals are not given advance warning before these orders are imposed.

It’s essential to seek immediate legal advice if you have been served with a restraint order or believe one may be imminent. Our team of specialist Fraud Defence Solicitors and Financial Fraud Lawyers will assess the legality of the order, advise on your rights, and where appropriate, apply to vary or discharge the restrictions imposed.

Civil fraud involves a legal claim brought by one party against another, usually to recover financial loss caused by deception. These cases are heard in the civil courts and can result in orders for compensation, asset freezing or injunctions, but they do not lead to criminal convictions or imprisonment. Civil fraud is typically pursued by companies, financial institutions or private individuals through commercial litigation.

Criminal fraud, on the other hand, is prosecuted by the state through agencies such as the Serious Fraud Office (SFO), HMRC, or the Crown Prosecution Service (CPS). The focus is on punishing wrongdoing and protecting the public. A conviction can result in serious consequences, including prison sentences, fines, confiscation of assets and professional disqualification.

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